Marion Jones will get the chance to begin a new chapter in her sports career by leaving track and field in the past and becoming a professional basketball player. Jones signed a one-year contract with the Tulsa Shock of the WNBA and will be a part of an organized basketball team for the first time since playing for the University of North Carolina.
Once known as the fastest woman in the world, Jones starred in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, winning five medals. But after admitting to taking steroids and being involved in a check-fraud scheme after initially lying to federal prosecutors, Jones served six months in prison and was stripped of her medals.
Jones’ contract with the Shock will allow her to rebuild her public image and will draw interest to a basketball league in need of marquee player that can generate interest. –a.r.
